Defending Philippine territory

Defending a state’s territory is one of the significant roles of the government. The Italian philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli mentioned in his book, “The Prince,” the importance of sovereignty and the autonomy of the state, as he described it as a superior entity of the land. The state has the responsibility to preserve its territory and resources, as well as protect the welfare of the people. The Philippines has played a massive role in implementing these mandates in accordance with international law and the 1987 Constitution.

The West Philippine Sea is one of the vital trading routes in the world. Billion-dollar worth of cargo passes this route coming from big economies of East Asia—China, Japan, and South Korea. This area is known for its abundant natural resources. Maritime countries in Southeast Asia, like the Philippines, have exploited the region as a traditional fishing ground ever since.

In addition, this particular area has untapped billion barrels of oil reserves and trillion cubic feet of natural gas. These discoveries in the area and their significant role in the global market made the countries in the region want to assert their claims, sparking regional tensions.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has buffed up its capabilities by acquiring new weapons and armaments through a modernization program and strengthening partnerships with traditional allies like the United States, Japan, and Australia.

The Philippines won at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague and that decision only affirmed the Philippines’ sovereignty and significantly bolstered its jurisdiction over the resources within its exclusive economic zone.

Territory is one of the pillars of the state. Without it, we cannot govern and create laws for the nation, and there will be no sustenance for the population to survive. Defining a territory also signifies autonomy, away from the control of the external force, and recognition in the international arena. The AFP, led by the commander in chief, President Marcos, is the custodian of our territory and sovereignty.

Ceddie Carlos, ceddiecarlos@gmail.com